Libraries struggle on

Schools library services have been damaged by the introduction of Fair Funding in England and Wales, according to a new survey. Public library services for children are also struggling against declining funding and usage.

The survey by the Library & Information Statistics Unit (LISU) noted a wide variation in the provision and usage of schools library services. The number of children served by the services fell to 74% of the school population in 2000-2001, down from 85% in 1999-2000.

"There is no statutory basis for these services and it seems that they have been affected by the impact of Fair Funding," the report said. Fifteen local education authorities still have no formal provision of schools library services.

The survey also examined children's use of public library services, noting that stock levels remained flat and spending on materials declined in real terms in 200-2001. Libraries had a total children's materials fund of £17.3m to spend on books, staff and events.

"In the past, issues of children's materials have held steady against a pattern of falling issues in the adult sector," it said. "This now appears to have changed, and use of children's stock is also beginning to decline."

"A Survey of Library Services to Schools and Children in the UK 2000-2001" is available from LISU, tel: 01509 223071.